Moberly, MO – Moberly Area Economic Development Corporation that represents Cooper, Monroe and Randolph Counties is expanding services to the three county region that it serves. The non-profit business development group has reached new agreements with its partner communities to expand services by offering local office hours to entrepreneurs and business owners in Cooper County.

The new agreement with the support of the Cooper County Commission and the City of Boonville will aid Moberly Area Economic Development staff by having a local office in Boonville. Representatives of Moberly Area Economic Development will be available to meet those needing business assistance on the first and third Thursday of each month beginning February 7th.

"We are very pleased to have the ability to expand our services in this way to the Cooper County business community," said Corey Mehaffy, President of Moberly Area Economic Development. "Entrepreneurs, business owners and individuals will have the opportunity to meet with our professional staff on a regular basis under this new agreement."

The new office hours will be between the hours of 1:30pm and 4:00pm on the first and third Thursday of each month at Boonville City Hall located at 401 Main Street. Appointments are not necessary but are encouraged by calling 1-660-263-8811.

"These new office hours will allow for our business community to have regular access to the confidential assistance they need," said Julie Thacher, Mayor of the City of Boonville. "We are pleased to have the support of the members of the City Council and the County Commission to assist the Cooper County business community in this manner."

In 2010, Cooper County and the City of Boonville joined forces to be an important part of a regional economic development effort by partnering with Moberly Area Economic Development and the other partner counties. In recent times Cooper County has seen the loss of several employers due to no fault of the community.

"We know that in times when employers reduce staff levels it creates on opportunity for entrepreneurial development," said Mehaffy. "We want to be in a place that those interested in starting their own business or expanding their small business can receive all the professional support they need."

"The potential for future growth in Cooper County remains very good," said Ken Hirlinger, local businessman and Cooper County representative to the Board of Directors for Moberly Area Economic Development. "We have a good team in place doing the right things for the local business community."